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David Byrne Squeezes 13-Piece Band Into NPR Tiny Desk, Mixing New Songs With Talking Heads Classics

The set paired fresh tracks from Who Is the Sky? with fan favorites to spotlight a tightly staged, blue-clad ensemble built for compact spaces.

Overview

  • Byrne opened the four-song performance with “Everybody Laughs” and “Don’t Be Like That” from his 2025 solo album Who Is the Sky?.
  • He closed with Talking Heads staples “(Nothing But) Flowers” and “Life During Wartime,” delivered with a cappella harmonies and high energy.
  • NPR’s Robin Hilton noted the tour’s cable-free, compact-instrument design made the 10-by-11-foot Tiny Desk setup workable for the 13 musicians.
  • The group performed in matching electric blue outfits, reinforcing the visual identity of Byrne’s current live production.
  • Byrne also shared a seasonal playlist titled “Christmas Music for People Who Hate Christmas Music,” as his U.S. tour runs through December 6 before international dates in 2026.